Slow thaw begins: Heavy fog followed by warmer weather

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Warmer temperatures in the Willamette Valley are melting the snow and ice that fell over the weekend as a winter storm moved through the region.

The National Weather Service issued a heavy fog advisory for the southern part of the valley that is scheduled to last until 12 p.m. Monday. The thick fog delayed dozens of flights at the Eugene Airport on Sunday.

Dense areas could linger in pockets, however fog should dissipate through Monday as temperatures move into the low 40s through the day. | Current Forecast

Weather officials also warned that overnight temperatures Sunday could freeze any moisture on the roadways, creating potentially dangerous driving conditions.

Many area schools and organizations announced Monday closures on Sunday because of the lingering snow, ice and debris around the region.

A majority of the state highways on the Coast and in the mid and south Willamette Valley have been cleared, Oregon Department of Transportation officials said.

Eugene Public Works warns drivers that the Monday morning commute could be messy as crews continue to clear downed tree limbs and slush from the city's side streets.

Lane Transit District has abridged bus schedules to accommodate the slush littering Eugene and Springfield streets:

If severe winter conditions arrive, ODOT says it will deploy all available tools in its winter arsenal, including plows, sanders and deicers, as appropriate. Here are some tips for travelers should an icy winter storm strike.

No one can safely drive on ice. If roads get icy, consider not driving or delaying your trip until the weather warms and the ice thaws.

In ice or snow, allow plenty of stopping distance and watch out for pedestrians and bicyclists because stopping distances are so much longer.

ODOT sand trucks, plows and deicer trucks can’t clear roads clogged with traffic. The more traffic stays off the road, the quicker roads can be treated.

Consider leaving the driving to the professionals and taking mass transit. Consider walking, riding a bike, working from home or taking the day off until the roads are clear.

Don’t abandon a vehicle in heavy traffic. This delays emergency responders, prevents plows and other maintenance equipment from getting through.